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Ginseng
Herbal Remedies and Medicinal Cures for Diseases, Ailments & Illnesses that afflict Humans and Animals
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Ginseng
The medicinal herb Ginseng (Asian) as an alternative herbal remedy - Asian ginseng is native to China and Korea and has been used in various systems of medicine for many centuries. Asian ginseng is one of several types of true ginseng (another is American ginseng, Panax quinquefolius). An herb called Siberian ginseng or eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosCommon Names--Asian ginseng, ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, Asiatic ginseng
Latin Name--Panax ginseng Picture of Ginseng (asian)
- Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) has been used medicinally in Asia for more than 5,000 years. Ginseng is said to promote Yang energy and is characterized by the presence of ginsenosides. Ginsenosides have been studied for their numerous health-supporting abilities. In recent times, Panax ginseng has been shown to support general well-being, as well as support the cardiovascular system and help sustain hormonal balance. (Forgo I, Kayasseh L, Staub JJ. "Effect of a standardized ginseng extract on general well-being, reaction capacity, pulmonary function and gonadal hormones" [German]. Medizinische Welt 1981; 32(19): 751-756 (English translation of German paper, with additional French summary). Further animal studies have investigated the long-term benefits of Panaxginseng with regards to life span. (Bittles AH, Fulder SJ, Grant EC, et al. "The effect of ginseng on the lifespan and stress responses in mice". Gerontology. 1979;25:125-131).
- Red ginseng (Also known as Panax ginseng and Korean ginseng) is one of the most prized and expensive Chinese herbs.
What Ginseng Is Used For
- Treatment claims for Asian ginseng are numerous and include the use of the herb to support overall health and boost the immune system. Traditional and modern uses of ginseng include:
- Improving the health of people recovering from illness
- Increasing a sense of well-being and stamina, and improving both mental and physical performance
- Treating erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, and symptoms related to menopause
- Lowering blood glucose and controlling blood pressure.
Herbal Remedy Products with Ginseng as part of the ingredients
- AdaptoZen™ - Herbal remedy supports balance and promotes resistance to physical, chemical & biological stressors
- Supports the body’s ability to withstand change and maintain balance
- Supports balance in the cardiovascular system
- Supports balanced pH and alkalinity in the stomach
- Supports harmony throughout the digestive system
- Supports balance in the thyroid and endocrine system
- Supports balance in the respiratory system
- Supports adrenal balance
- Supports health in the brain and nervous system
- Supports equilibrium, health and vitality as the body deals with the natural process of aging
- Supports healthy physiological functioning of the body
- Focus ADDult™ - Herbal remedy proven to relieve symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder
- Improves adult concentration
- Boosts memory functioning
- Improves attention span
- Increases motivation and energy
- Reduces distractibility
How Ginseng Is Used
The root of Asian ginseng contains active chemical components called ginsenosides (or panaxosides) that are thought to be responsible for the herb's medicinal properties. The root is dried and used to make tablets or capsules, extracts, and teas, as well as creams or other preparations for external use.
What the Science Says about Ginseng
- Some studies have shown that Asian ginseng may lower blood glucose. Other studies indicate possible beneficial effects on immune function.
- To date, research results on Asian ginseng are not conclusive enough to prove health claims associated with the herb. Only a handful of large clinical trials on Asian ginseng have been conducted. Most studies have been small or have had flaws in design and reporting. Some claims for health benefits have been based only on studies conducted in animals.
- NCCAM is supporting research studies to better understand the use of Asian ginseng. NCCAM is studying how Asian ginseng interacts with other herbs and drugs and exploring its potential to treat chronic lung infection, impaired glucose tolerance, and Alzheimer's disease.
Side Effects and Cautions of Ginseng
- When taken by mouth, ginseng is usually well tolerated. Some sources suggest that its use be limited to 3 months because of concerns about the development of side effects.
- The most common side effects are headaches and sleep and gastrointestinal problems.
- Ginseng can cause allergic reactions.
- There have been reports of breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities, and high blood pressure associated with ginseng products, but these products' components were not analyzed, so effects may have been due to another herb or drug in the product.
- Ginseng may lower levels of blood sugar; this effect may be seen more in people with diabetes. Therefore, people with diabetes should use extra caution with Asian ginseng, especially if they are using medicines to lower blood sugar or taking other herbs, such as bitter melon and fenugreek, that are also thought to lower blood sugar.
- It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including Asian ginseng. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.
News About Ginseng
Ginseng could be an effective way to prevent the flu
- (The Conversation)
Ginseng, the root of the plant Panax ginseng, is one of the most commonly used herbal medicines and is often sold as an over-the-counter remedy for fatigue. Although it has been used by humans for thousands of years, more recent research has begun to investigate therapeutic and pharmacological uses including anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to act on the immune system and to affect viral replication. And it may also be a very effective way of preventing the flu.
The findings of a recent study we carried out suggest that normal consumption of Korean red ginseng extract by healthy individuals could prevent infections by different flu virus strains. And studies in mice suggest that long-term ginseng intake could confer and prepare immune systems with better resistance to fight future pathogens.
The effect that ginseng has on flu virus infections regardless of strain makes it different from the strain-specific protection from annual vaccinations (often given to those most at risk such as the elderly and pregnant women, and determined by the strains in most circulation in a given year) and prescribed antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu – which recently came under fire over its effectiveness as a treatment against severe flu. Rooting around
Korean red ginseng extracts are produced by steaming and drying the fresh roots of six-year-old Panax ginseng plants. These are then boiled in water and the supernatants – or liquids above the settled material – are concentrated. It is this preparation that can be designated as “red ginseng extract.” Because of its prominent biological effects, extracts from this particular plant have been used in animal studies. Despite known beneficial effects on human health and its action on viral infection, the mechanism for how it does this remains largely unknown.
In previous studies, we investigated the effects of ginseng given orally in mice – the most common way that healthy people take ginseng as a supplement. We found that this gave the mice a moderate but significant resistance to infection with the 2009 pandemic flu virus strain – on the whole it didn’t prevent illness, which was shown by them losing weight, but it did result in better survival.
Protection from ginseng given before infection wasn’t strong because the mice still became ill but we also found that treating them with ginseng after infection gave even less protection. Cross-protection
However most human adults who consume ginseng already have some immunity to the flu, either through previous contact with the virus or vaccination. So we tried giving ginseng instead to vaccinated mice instead through oral doses and found that it significantly improved how well the mice were able to fight different strains of flu viruses through cross-protection.
Infection of mice with a mixture of influenza virus and ginseng extract resulted in better clearance of lung viral levels and lower levels of inflammatory cytokines, the small proteins that are important in helping cells to send signals. But it also led to higher levels of antiviral cytokines. From these lab tests we know that Korean red ginseng extract may inhibit the flu virus growing. The extract appears to have multiple mechanisms against fighting infectious diseases, which might be beneficial if taken in healthy mice with previous exposure and prior to infections.
Our more recent study, published in Nutrients found that ginseng improved the survival of human lung epithelial cells (tissue cells that line cavities in the lung) when someone is infected with the flu virus. Also, ginseng treatment reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory genes, probably in part by interfering with chemically reactive molecules that contain oxygen and which are formed by the flu virus.
Taking ginseng for a longer term (around 60 days) showed multiple effects on the immune system of mice such as stimulating anti-viral protein production after flu virus infection. Ginseng also inhibited the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the lungs in mice. So ginseng might have potential beneficial effects in preventing flu virus infections by acting on the immune system in multiple ways.
Small doses of ginseng has been taken in humans for many years with no major side effects. But while ginseng looks like a promising way to help prevent flu, results only relate to healthy individuals taking normal doses. Based on animal studies it also has shown no or only minimal protective beneficial effects if treated after the onset of symptoms.
S. Korea to serve 8,000 tourists ginseng-chicken soup
- By Wu Jin (China.org.cn)
South Korea plans to welcome a tourist group of 8,000 staff members from a Chinese healthcare product company.
The Chinese tourists are scheduled to arrive in Seoul, in two groups of 4,000, and will be served ginseng-chicken soup, a popular local specialty, on May 5 and May 9 at Banpo Hangang Park.
The banquet will start at 6:00 p.m., and singers from "Descendants of the Sun," a popular South Korean TV drama, will take the stage at 7:00 p.m.
Considering the enormous size of the visiting delegations, the local police advised people to keep away from the routes around Jamsu Bridge from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on those two particular days, saying there may be traffic jams as the buses of the delegations pass.
The meal, following a party of fried chicken and beer held on South Korea's Wolmido Island in March this year, is a commercial campaign to help stimulate exports of ginseng-chicken soup to China, China News Service reported.
The 8,000 employees will stay in Seoul for five days before returning home and the group tourism will contribute roughly 49.5 billion South Korean Won (US$43.4 million) to South Korea's economy.
Feeling stressed? A cup of ginseng may help you
- Source:http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2015/12/02/feeling-stressed-a-cup-ginseng-may-help-you.html
- By Yuliasri Perdani
Take a sip of ginseng beverage. The bitter taste may annoy you at first, but you'll be glad to know the drink may help you to reduce stress.
Two South Korean scientists recently came to Jakarta to reveal how Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) known as the King of Herbs may help you in handling stress, improving your memory and possibly preventing cancer.
Prof. Dr. Dong-Kwon Rhee from Sungkyunkwan University conveyed the results of research that indicate ginseng's anti-stress effect. One of them is a 2013 research project partly funded by the Korean Society of Ginseng, in which mice were orally administered ginseng and exposed to immobilization stress.
The immobilization stress can induce inflammatory responses in the brain, leading to tissue damage. The research shows that the ginseng administration protects the mice's brains from such damage.
The result shows that ginseng suppresses cell death by decreasing production of oxidative compounds and subsequently protecting brains from oxidative damage, he said in a recent seminar held by the aT Korean Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation in Jakarta.
At the event, several Korean ginseng companies provided samples of their products to be savored by the seminar participants. From ginseng tea and ginseng coffee to ginseng candy and ginseng jelly.
It tastes quite bitter, like jamu [Indonesian herbal medicine], a woman said upon chewing ginseng honey jelly.
Back at the seminar, Rhee went on to explain the cancer preventive effect of ginseng based on research on animals. It indicates that the ginseng consumers in the population have less than 0.5 percent risk of cancer, while the cancer risk of those consuming placebos stands at 1 percent.
It is still a stretch to say that ginseng extracts can prevent human from getting cancer. So far, there is evidence that ginseng can help to combat cancer-related fatigue, one of common side effects of chemotherapy.
In 2010, the US Mayo Clinic conducted a randomized double-blind study with 290 cancer patients. Among those who took 1,000 or 2,000 milligrams of ginseng a day reported less fatigue and more energy after eight weeks. A study by the American Society of Clinical Oncology also shows similar result.
Whether you want to test the anti-stress or anti-cancer effects of ginseng, or simply want to have a boost of energy, Dong-Kwon suggested Korean red ginseng, 6-year-old Korean ginseng that has been peeled, heated and dried. Red ginseng has the highest anti-cancer agents and active components called ginsenoside.
Ginsenoside shows the potential to treat declining memory functions in aging or Alzheimer's disease, Prof. Sei-Kwan Oh from Ewha Women's University quoted several studies.
Remarkable Ginseng Research Backs Herb's Reputation
- By Kathleen Jade, ND
Ginseng is one of the best known and most frequently studied medicinal plants worldwide. This is for good reason—ginseng benefits just about every system in the body in one way or another.There are a number of different types of ginseng. The species of ginseng that is most commonly used around the world is Panax ginseng, also known as Korean or Asian ginseng. Its official botanical name is Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is another commonly used and well-studied species. The word “Panax” is derived from the Latin "Pan," meaning “all,” and "Akos," meaning “cure.” If any herbal medicine is truly a cure-all, ginseng is it. Its broad range of therapeutic effects includes everything from fighting fatigue to preventing cancer.
- Ginseng’s Two Most Beneficial ConstituentsBig Piece Of Ginseng Root
Most ginseng benefits are thought to be the result of two important groups of compounds: ginsenosides and polysaccharides. The ginsenosides are the most-studied ginseng constituents and have been found to have regulatory effects on the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, immune system, reproductive system, and more. While both Asian and American ginseng contain ginsenosides, there are some key differences in types and amounts of these compounds which create some of the variation in terms of their therapeutic effects.[1] The older the plant, the more ginsenosides generally contained in the root. Roots must typically be at least 4 years old before harvest in order to have adequate ginsenosides for medicinal effects. Ginseng’s polysaccharides, meanwhile, are antioxidants with immune-regulating effects and are thought to be partly responsible for its anti-cancer benefits.
Research-backed ginseng benefits include the following:
- Ginseng Combats Stress and Reduces Fatigue
Ginseng is best known for its ability to boost energy and relieve stress. Both American and Asian ginseng can be perfectly classified as “tonic” and “adaptogen” herbs. Both ginsengs have nutritive, restorative, and normalizing effects which enhance homeostasis and counteract negative effects brought about by stressors. They do this mainly by helping to restore normal functioning of the body’s main stress response system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis).
The results of one of the largest studies to-date demonstrating ginseng’s anti-fatigue effects were recently published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.[2] This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial by Mayo researchers evaluated a daily dose of 2000 mg American ginseng extractor placebo for 8 weeks in 364 fatigued cancer patients or survivors from 40 different clinics. After 8 weeks, those taking the ginseng showed a statistically and clinically significant difference in their levels of fatigue compared to those taking the placebo. The results for the patients who received ginseng and were undergoing chemotherapy or radiation during the study were especially surprising to the researchers. Those patients had significant improvements starting at 4 weeks rather than 8 weeks.
Like American ginseng, Panax ginseng has also been shown to improve fatigue associated with various conditions in double blind studies. One recent study in adults with chronic fatigue syndrome found that 2000 mg per day of Panax ginseng extract significantly decreased fatigue compared to placebo.
- Ginseng Improves Cognitive Function
Both Asian and American ginseng have been shown to improve cognitive function and memory. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in healthy young adults found significant improvements in working memory 1-6 hours after administration of an American ginseng extract standardized to 10.65% ginsenosides.[3] Other studies also found that standardized extracts of American ginseng significantly improve aspects ofmemory.
Like American ginseng, Panax ginseng also improves cognitive function. In one study, a 200 mg capsule of Panax ginseng enhanced performance of a mental arithmetic task and ameliorated feelings of mental fatigue during the later stages of a sustained, cognitively demanding test. A series of studies by researchers in South Korea found that high doses of Panax ginseng (4.5 to 9 grams a day of Korean Red ginseng) lead to significant and long-term improvements in cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Ginseng Improves Blood Sugar Regulation
Ginseng has traditionally been used to treat high blood sugar and diabetes, and some recent studies support its ability to help regulate blood sugar while other studies do not. At this point in time, researchers believe that certain compounds in both Asian and American ginseng may be beneficial for blood sugar regulation. Among the two, American ginseng seems to work better. Studies indicate American ginseng may help improve blood sugar control in both healthy people and people with type 2 diabetes. Most of the studies with American ginseng have used a dose of 1-3 grams of dried powdered root.
- Ginseng Prevents Colds and Flu
In addition to ginsenosides, ginseng contains certain polysaccharides that have been shown to have immune stimulating effects. In one study, 200 mg capsules twice a day of a proprietary American ginseng extract called Cold-fX for 4 months during the cold and flu season reduced the risk of respiratory symptoms by 48% and the duration of symptoms by 55%.[5] Another study using 400 or 800 mg per day of the same extract for six months found that both doses significantly reduced the incidence of upper respiratory infections compared to placebo, with the higher dose working best.
- Additional ginseng benefits
In addition to the benefits listed above, ginseng has been shown to improve erectile function[15], decrease blood pressure and arterial stiffness, improve antioxidant functioning and glutathione levels[16], help prevent cancer recurrence, and decrease menopausal symptoms. With more studies currently underway, the possibilities for ginseng seem endless. For overall health and vitality, this herb is it!
Ginseng 'could improve memory'
- (BBC News)
The herbal remedy ginseng can help improve memory in stroke patients suffering from dementia, researchers have found.
Stroke patients can experience a form of memory loss called moderate vascular dementia, which is caused by damage to the blood vessels leading to the brain.
Chinese researchers found taking a ginseng compound meant people who had experienced a stroke scored more highly on memory tests than those who did not take the herb.
But UK experts said the findings had to be treated with caution.
Forty patients, with an average age of 67, who had mild or moderate vascular dementia took part in the study.
Twenty-five were given a tablet of ginseng extracted from Chinese ginseng roots, leaves and an herb known as panax notoginseng three times daily.
The rest were given a Duxil, (almitrine + raubasine), a drug which increases oxygen use in brain tissue. It has previously been shown to improve the memory of elderly patients with dementia.
All 40 were given memory tests which focused on how well they could recall stories, words and other verbal and visual memory tests before and after the 12-week study.
Those given the ginseng significantly improved their average memory function after 12 weeks.
It was found ginseng increased the activities of the brain chemicals acetylcholine and choline acetyltransferase in elderly mice.
- 'Used for centuries'
Professor Jinzhou Tian, from the Department of Care of the Elderly at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Dongzhimen Hospital in China, led the research.
Professor Tian said the Chinese ginseng extract was a cheap natural treatment.
"Chinese ginseng has been used for centuries in China to treat disease and aging."
"However, the effects of Chinese ginseng compound on mild or moderate dementia after stroke in humans have not been reported until now."
The researchers say larger studies are needed to confirm their findings.
- Further research
Dr Robert Adams, a spokesperson for the American Stroke Association, said: "There is currently great interest in studying herbs used in traditional forms of medicines, and the problem of dementia after stroke is a significant one.
"As the authors point out, this work showing that ginseng may improve memory after stroke needs to be further studied, with larger sample sizes.
"At this time, a recommendation to use this herb for memory enhancement would be premature."
- 'Caution'
Dr Richard Harvey, head of research for the UK's Alzheimer's Society warned the design of the study meant its findings could not be relied on.
"It's not at all valid to say ginseng improves memory because they compared people given that to people given a completely different drug."
He said it would have been possible to say ginseng conferred benefits if they had compared people taking to ginseng to a group taking nothing, or given both groups Duxil with one also receiving ginseng.
Dr Harvey added: "This study has to be treated with enormous caution.
"This is dangerous science that's not easily interpreted."
Eoin Redahan, of the Stroke Association, said: "We would suggest that anyone thinking of taking ginseng should first discuss this with their doctor as it may inter-react with medicines already being taken."
The research was presented to the American Stroke Association's conference in Phoenix, Arizona.
Knocking Out Colds with Ginseng
- By Cathy Wong, ND (Alternative Medicine Expert)
In herbal medicine, several species of ginseng are used to fight colds. These species include American ginseng and Panax ginseng. Although it not a "true" ginseng, an herb known as Siberian ginseng is also widely used to treat or prevent colds. Why Do People Sometimes Use Ginseng for Colds?
Ginseng is one of the most popular natural remedies for colds. Widely available for purchase online, dietary supplements containing ginseng are sold in many natural-foods stores and other stores specializing in natural products.
Proponents suggest that American ginseng, Panax ginseng, and Siberian ginseng can help stimulate the immune system and shore up the body's defense against the common cold.
Related: 5 Ways to Boost Your Immune System Naturally
Additionally, Siberian ginseng is considered an adaptogen (a class of herbs said to boost the body's resistance to everyday stress).
Since chronic stress is thought to weaken the immune system, it's said that Siberian ginseng can also fight colds by shielding the body from the negative effects of stress.
- Research on Ginseng for Colds
While few studies have focused on the effectiveness of using ginseng for cold relief, some research shows that certain species of ginseng may aid in the prevention and/or treatment of colds. Here's a look at several key findings from this research:
1) Siberian Ginseng
Several studies suggest that Siberian ginseng may help alleviate symptoms of the common cold. Many of these studies have involved the use of an herbal formula containing a combination of Siberian ginseng and andrographis.
In a 2002 study published in Phytomedicine, for instance, 95 cold sufferers were treated with a combination of Siberian ginseng and andrographis for five days.
Compared to 90 patients given a placebo for the same time period, those who took the herbal formula showed a significantly greater improvement in nasal symptoms, throat symptoms, and headache. However, improvement in cough and eye symptoms did not differ between the two groups.
2) American Ginseng
For a report published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2011, researchers reviewed five clinical trials (with a total of 747 participants) examining the use of American ginseng for the prevention of colds.
Results revealed that American ginseng may help shorten the duration of colds when taken preventatively for eight to 16 weeks. However, there wasn't enough evidence to support the claim that American ginseng can lessen the severity of colds or reduce cold incidence.
3) Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng may help protect against colds, according to a study published in Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research in 1996. In a 12-week-long trial involving 227 volunteers, researchers observed that participants given a supplement containing Panax ginseng had a significantly lower incidence of colds (compared to those given a placebo).
In traditional Chinese medicine, Panax ginseng (and Korean ginseng) are said to have a hot nature and are not usually taken during a cold, but may be used for prevention.
- Safety Concerns
Although short-term use of ginseng may be safe when used in appropriate amounts by healthy people, each type of ginseng is associated with a number of side effects. For example, side effects linked with use of Panax ginseng and American ginseng include insomnia, headache, diarrhea, increased blood pressure, and nervousness.
Siberian ginseng, meanwhile, may trigger side effects like anxiety and muscle spasms. Since use of Siberian ginseng may also increase blood pressure and lead to changes in heart rhythm, people with heart disease are advised to avoid use of this herb.
People with bleeding disorders, hormone-sensitive conditions (such as breast cancer), autoimmune disease, heart disease, and high blood pressure, schizophrenia, and organ transplant recipients and pregnant or nursing women should avoid ginseng.
Many types of ginseng may interact with a number of commonly used medications (for instance, it can't be taken with warfarin), so it's crucial to consult your physician prior to taking ginseng.
- Alternatives to Ginseng
When using ginseng as a treatment for colds, taking the herb as soon as cold symptoms start is sometimes suggested to achieve maximum benefit.
Echinacea and astragalus are two of the herbs with the most support for their effectiveness in reducing cold duration and severity. Increasing your intake of garlic and ginger may also help fend off colds.
Furthermore, there's some evidence that getting your fill of vitamin C and zinc and maintaining optimal levels of vitamin D may lower your odds of coming down with a cold.
For more help in staying cold-free, make sure to wash your hands frequently. A number of lifestyle practices (such as getting sufficient sleep, exercising regularly, and managing your stress) can help rev up your immune system as well.
Enamored with Ginseng
- By Bony Bengwayan
Ginseng, or InSam in Korean, is a plant to reckon with, its reputation as life elixir that Cordillerans seek the elusive herb grown south of the Korean Peninsula.
Farmers in Paracelis and Natonin, in Mountain Province try to grow it, like their counterparts in Benguet, apparently with little success.
But intrepid highland farmers they are, cultivators believe they will lick this problem in due time.
But one they do: whenever given a ginseng root, they immerse it in the bottles of their favorite wines, savoring the drink and the benefits the ginseng provides.
Not only Filipinos, but others in Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe, US and Latin America have tasted Korean ginseng and found it truly distinct. To most, it is a wonderful plant.
No exact figures are present on how much Korean ginseng generates sales from lump purchase to retail in northern Luzon, particularly CAR and Region 1, but traders generally agree it is a multi-million industry.
While grown in other nations, it is widely planted in nine provinces in Korea where its soil, climate and indigenous farming methods produce the world’s best. Other countries are hard pressed matching ginseng produced in Korea.
Korean grown ginseng is specifically termed “Koryo Insam,” named after an ancient kingdom of Koryo from which Korea derived its name. In the olden days, Korean InSam utilized a different Chinese character for “sam,” meaning ginseng.
InSam’s reputation started with sansam. Insam, growing in the wilds, deep in the mountains, is known as sansam (mountain InSam).
In ancient days, search for it was a spiritual endeavor for those in Korea’s mountainous regions. Today, there are those who wander around deep valleys and uncharted mountain areas for the mystical plant. They are known as shimmemani or shimmani (both mean gatherer of wild InSam).
Insam growing in the wilds is considered the best but found rarely. Today, commercial cultivation tries to meet world demand.
South Korea students, entrepreneurs and visitors are delighted no end that part of their culture is becoming embedded in the Philippines, two countries known for record of friendship since WWII, cooperation and economic ties today.
In Baguio City alone, the Bureau of Immigration (BOM) counted 22,003 Koreans last year.
Earlier, the government agreed on a number of trade accords with South Korean businesses, one is establishing a national ginseng center. Agriculture Secretary Prospero Alcala thanked his South Korean counterpart Agriculture Minister Lee Dong-phil for this cooperation.
Ginseng is sensitive to soil, climate, and difficult to propagate, a challenge for agricultural extension workers in CAR, particularly thinkers from Benguet State University and CAR- Department of Agriculture.
Science has opened ginseng’s contribution to mankind’s search for better health. No wonder millions are enamored by an innocent-looking plant capable of imparting stamina and vitality.
The health benefits of ginseng
- By Jennifer Nelson
The herb known as the 'divine root' comes in several forms that can be used to speed recovery and improve concentration.
The English word "ginseng" is derived from the Chinese term rénshen. Rén, which means man, and shen, meaning root, refers to the root's forked shape, which resembles the legs of a man. Other names were also given to ginseng such as magical herb, divine root and root of life.
The relationship between ginseng and man dates back some 5,000 years when it was first discovered in the mountains of Manchuria, China. The root quickly became revered for its health- and life-giving properties. Its human shape became a powerful symbol of divine harmony on Earth. From this, the idea that it treats human conditions sprung forth.
There are many types of ginseng: Korean, Chinese, American and Siberian, according to Tony Burris, a licensed acupuncturist and traditional Chinese sports medicine practitioner at Eagle Acupuncture in Eagle, Idaho. "Actually, Siberian ginseng is not a true ginseng at all," he says. "The type I prescribe most is the Chinese ginseng (Radix ginseng)."
For athletes, this herb helps promotes respiratory function and it also fosters fluid production in the body, which keeps the body hydrated and reduces thirst. It also improves cognitive function and reduces fatigue.
"This can be a very helpful herb in cases of overtraining," Burris says. "I prefer to prescribe this in a tincture form, with a standardized amount of the active components, ginsenosides at 25 milligrams daily."
American ginseng is different. Radix panacis quinquefolii has a sedative effect of the central nervous system and is milder than Chinese ginseng. Burris uses this as part of a recovery regimen at the conclusion of a sports season, meet or league schedule. He prefers to prescribe it in tincture form.
- Ginseng in Chinese medicine
From a Chinese medicine perspective, ginseng is slightly bitter, warm and goes to the "lung and spleen channels." It was used more often for very weak patients as it is considered one of the strongest qi (life force) tonics in the pharmacopeia, says Dr. Phranque Wright, doctor of acupuncture and Oriental medicine and official acupuncturist for the Chicago Outfit Roller Derby League.
It tonifies base qi — meaning it helps strengthen a body in very weak condition. It especially strengthens the lung and spleen. It also helps the body generate needed fluids.
Ginseng can help a variety of general weakness conditions, which is why people think of it as an energy enhancer, but it should not be taken as an energy enhancer if someone is already in good shape without also being sure to get adequate nutrition and proper rest.
Ginseng should not be taken long term but rather only for a few weeks to three months to curb the chance of side effects.
It is prescribed as a general health tonic, because it's thought to improve immunity or build people back up after a long illness or surgery, and in certain cases for asthma, erectile dysfunction and/or fertility challenges. "Dosage varies with the condition of the patient; I recommend from 1 to 9 g, but the most common dose is somewhere in the middle," says Martha Lucas, Ph.D. L.Ac of Lucas Acupuncture in Colorado.
"Ginseng may also be effective for decreasing anxiety in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Herbal formulas that contain ginseng may relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression," says Trudy Scott, author of "The Antianxiety Food Solution: How the Foods You Eat Can Help you Calm Your Anxious Mind, Improve Your Mood and End Cravings."
Several studies have also shown that ginseng may lower blood sugar levels, and there is some early evidence that ginseng might moderately improve concentration and cognitive function, especially combined with gingko biloba, another herb used in improving memory.
- Dosing
Ginseng comes in a variety of forms, including capsules, soft gels, powder, extracts, tinctures and creams. When choosing a ginseng supplement, look for one that has at least 7 percent ginsenosides and is made by a reputable company. There is no standard dose for each condition, so it's recommended you work with a practitioner familiar with herbal treatments, and specifically ginseng, to find the right dose and delivery method for your needs.
- Side effects
Side effects are generally mild but can include insomnia, headaches, dizziness and upset stomach. Ginseng is not recommended for children, pregnant and breast-feeding women as well as people who have high blood pressure, take diabetes medications, blood-thinning drugs or antidepressants. Talk to your doctor before taking ginseng for any health problem or enhancement.
Top 7 health benefits of ginseng
- Source:http://zeenews.india.com/news/health/healthy-eating/top-7-health-benefits-of-ginseng_20353.html
- By Philaso G. Kaping
The gnarly root of the ginseng plant has been used as a medicine in China for over 5,000 years. It is known as an `adaptogen`i.e, it increases the body`s ability to adapt to stress and changing situations.
The root is usually chewed or brewed as tea. It is also available as tablet, capsule and liquid extract.
Ginseng is found only in the Northern Hemisphere. Two of the most common species are the American ginseng and the Asian ginseng or red ginseng, Panax ginseng, Korean ginseng.
Here are some of the benefits of ginseng:
Stress reliever: Ginseng is known to reduce the levels of stress and acts as a stimulant. It also regulates metabolism and increases energy levels.
Anti-aging benefit: Ginseng helps slow the signs of aging as it is a significant source of antioxidants which halt the formation of free radicals and another anti-aging substance called maltol.
Mental stimulant: Ginseng tea helps stimulate brain cells thereby improving concentration, thinking ability and memory.
Aids in erectile dysfunction: Ginseng acts as a potent aphrodisiac and is believe to help those men with erectile dysfunction.
Helps control weight: Ginseng tea is a natural appetite suppressant and helps in fighting obesity.
Blood sugar control: Studies show that ginseng may help diabetics to control blood sugar levels as it creates sugar-lowering effects in fasting and after-meal blood sugar levels.
Menstrual problems: American ginseng tea helps reduce the pain of menstrual cramps.
Precaution: However, like all health supplements, it must be used under medical supervision as it can cause allergy, headaches, gastrointestinal and sleep problems. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and those who are under medication should avoid using ginseng.
Pictures of Ginseng and Ginseng products
Ginseng Plant
